LG Dryer tE Code: Meaning & Fixes
- Meaning
- Thermistor error: the dryer detected a problem with its temperature sensor.
- Can I fix it?
- Sometimes, may need a pro
- Also shown as
- tE1, tE2, tE3, tE4
- Seen on
- LG electric and gas front-load dryers, and LG-built Kenmore dryers. The number after tE (tE1 to tE6) tells a technician which sensor reading is off.
LG’s fix for tE1 and tE3 is a power reset: unplug the dryer, hold Start/Pause for 5 seconds, then plug it back in. tE2 is different: LG ties it to cold conditions, such as an outside vent flap stuck open in winter that lets cold air back in. If any tE code keeps returning, the dryer’s temperature sensor or its wiring needs service.
Try this first
- Unplug the dryer or switch off its breaker.
- With the power off, press and hold Start/Pause for 5 seconds.
- Restore power and start another cycle.
- For tE2 in cold weather: clean the lint filter, clear snow, ice or lint from the outside vent and check that its flaps open fully.
What causes tE
| Cause | What you notice | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary sensor reading fault | tE once, then normal after a reset | Power reset with Start/Pause held |
| Cold air backdraft through the vent (tE2) | tE2 in winter or on steam cycles | Outside vent flaps, lint filter |
| Failed thermistor | tE returns after every reset | Needs a technician |
| Loose or damaged sensor wiring | tE comes and goes | Needs a technician |
Fix it step by step
Tap a step number to tick it off as you go. Ticks stay on this device.
-
Cut the power
Unplug the dryer or switch off its breaker.
Safety: Electric dryers run on 240 volts. On a gas dryer, leave the gas line alone.
-
Hold Start/Pause
With the power still off, press and hold Start/Pause for 5 seconds.
-
Restore power and test
Plug the dryer back in or switch the breaker on, and start another cycle.
-
For tE2: warm up the vent
Clean the lint filter, then go outside and clear snow, ice, frost or lint from the exhaust vent. Run Air Dry and check that the flaps open fully. Run the empty dryer for a few minutes to warm it up.
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For tE2 on steam cycles
Select SteamFresh, press More Time until the display shows big, then press Start.
When to call a technician
If a tE code returns after the reset, LG says the dryer may need repair service. tE4 always needs service. A faulty temperature sensor can affect how the heater is controlled, so stop using the dryer if the code keeps coming back.
Questions people ask
What's the difference between tE1, tE2 and tE3?
All three point to a temperature sensor reading. LG treats tE2 as a cold-conditions problem with vent and warm-up checks, and tE1 and tE3 as sensor faults that start with a power reset.
Why does my LG dryer show tE2 in winter?
LG says tE2 can appear in cold conditions, for example when the outside vent flap is stuck open and cold air flows back in, or when the duct cools too fast on steam cycles.
Is the LG dryer tE the same as Samsung tE?
Both are temperature sensor codes, but the steps differ by brand. Use the instructions for your dryer's brand.